Choosing Between Same-Day Crowns and Traditional Crowns

If you have a chipped, cracked, or otherwise damaged tooth, one of the most effective ways of preventing the issue from getting worse is by getting a dental crown. Coronas dentales are tooth-shaped caps that fully cover a weak or damaged tooth, helping to restore strength and function.

There are a number of coronas dentales to choose from, with options made of varying materials, but one of the main decisions that you will have to make first is to choose between traditional crowns and same-day options. Which is the right type for your needs? Learn all about these types of crowns.

What Are Traditional Dental Crowns?

Traditional crowns are dental restorations made in a dental laboratory over two to three weeks. They can be crafted out of a variety of materials, including porcelain-fused-to-metal, all-porcelain, or all-ceramic materials.

Because they’re made in a laboratory, they offer a precise fit that can be perfect for complex tooth issues and awkward fits. They are highly durable options.

What Are Same-Day Dental Crowns?

Same-day dental crowns are dental restorations made in the dental office in one visit. The crowns are designed digitally and then milled from a solid block of Zirconia while you wait. This eliminates the need to schedule another appointment and get a temporary crown.

Main Differences Between Same-Day Crowns and Traditional Crowns

When considering which crown option is the right one for your needs, there are a few main differences to keep in mind.

Materials, Technique, and Durability

Same-day crowns are made from high-quality ceramic materials and rely on the latest technologies for a precise fit. If well cared for, same-day crowns can last between 10 and 15 years. Most dentists work with CEREC technology, which creates reliable and sturdy crowns.

Traditional crowns can be crafted from a variety of materials, including metal, ceramic composites, and porcelain. The material you choose will impact its durability, but many traditional crowns last for 15 or more years.

Tiempo

Same-day crowns are made during one appointment. Your dentist creates a digital imprint of the tooth, specialized technology crafts the crown, and you get it fitted in place that same day.

With traditional crowns, you will have to schedule a second appointment because the crowns have to be made at a lab. It’s a less convenient option and might not be the right one for people with very busy schedules.

Cost

Same-day crowns may appear to cost more, but they could actually save you money because you don’t have to get a temporary crown or schedule a second appointment. Traditional crowns might also be more dependent on lab fees, which could spike the cost.

Need for Temporary Crowns

With traditional crowns, you’ll need to wait for the lab to finish crafting the restoration, so your dentist will place a temporary crown to protect your damaged tooth. This is an added procedure.

With same-day crowns, you leave the appointment with the permanent crowns in place, potentially saving you time and money.

Fit

Because same-day crowns are made with the latest technology, including 3D scans, you can expect a perfect and comfortable fit. Most traditional crowns also fit well, but their quality can often depend on the lab that your dentist uses.

In some instances, you may need changes made, and that can further delay the process.

Candidates

For same-day crowns, the best candidates are people who would like a fast restoration and don’t have time to schedule a second appointment. They can help address mild or moderate tooth damage.

Traditional crowns are perfect for those who need extensive restorations, including some people who grind their teeth. These crowns can better address more significant tooth damage. If you have a root canal, for example, you’ll need a traditional dental crown.

Choosing the Right Dental Restoration Option

If you have a damaged tooth, there’s no time to wait. Allowing it to continue like that can mean facing further damage and complications like infections and possibly the loss of the tooth. By making an appointment with your dentist as soon as you notice damage, you can protect your oral health.

Dr. Brett Langston provides the quality restorative dental services you need during this type of dental emergency. Our team is proud to offer same-day crowns made with CEREC technology, which is the latest and most trusted option in the field. You can get the exact results you’ve been looking for when you trust our team.

Contact Dr. Brett Langston to schedule your dental crown appointment.